Opinion

Living on the Land program offered in Putnam County

Monday, January 11, 2010

Ever dreamed of living in the country?

Have you inherited or bought some land and are wondering what to do now? Do you want to make your land pay for itself? Do you want to explore different opportunities for growing and selling what you produce?

Are you feeling overwhelmed by how much there seems to do on your property? Do you feel that you need help and don't know where to get it?

Purdue Extension is offering the perfect class for you! It is a new program called Living on the Land.

Living on the Land is a program for beginning farmers and landowners. The program is directed to help you make good decisions about living, working and farming your land.

Living on the Land is to help you feel more confident about living in the country.

Purdue Extension has been helping small farmers for over 100 years, and we want to help new farmers and landowners to enjoy the country lifestyle. Small-acreage properties have a number of unique challenges. For many, their new country residence is their first experience living in a rural setting. There are expectations of clean living, good schools, less traffic, friendly neighbors, a high level of services, and little interference with lifestyle decisions.

The reality can often be quite different and result in a variety of social, economic and environmental issues.

Many small-acreage owners soon discover that their ability to manage their properties is affected by a number of legal issues, including regulations, zoning, easements, water rights availability, etc. They find that property management absorbs much more time than they'd anticipated, and early euphoria gives way to discouragement.

At the same time, these small-acreage landowners have a significant impact on the condition of soil, water, plants, and other natural resources through their cumulative effects and inexperience.

Purdue Extension wants to help you navigate the number of potential issues that might arise from living in the country. I know that small farmers and landowners have a huge need for information and technical assistance to help them "do the right thing" for their land, wildlife, and water resources.

Come and be part of this new program. Living on the Land has the expertise and information you need to be successful. The 12 classes will start Feb. 9, and will be every Tuesday night from 6-9 p.m.

You must register for the class by calling the Extension Office at 653-8411. The cost is $200 per person and there are family rates; it's only $75 for an additional person to attend the program with you.

This price includes experts coming to talk to you, many handouts and networking opportunities.

If you have any questions, please contact Ann Delchambre 653-8411, e-mail adelchambre@purdue.edu, or log on to Facebook Putnam County Agriculture and Twitter AgAgent.